Whether you've got cold temperatures outside or are living in the depths of a heat wave in Summer, you're probably using that HVAC system constantly. Your Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system is a high-use appliance with a lot of wear and tear. The HVAC is essential to any home, cooling and heating the house's interior as needed. While regular maintenance can help prevent serious issues (we recommend scheduling a service once or twice a year), an HVAC can still have a few problems throughout the year.
Because we rely on the HVAC and other home appliances so
much, it can be worrying when the system suddenly starts making unexpected noises. While some noises are
normal and have no cause for concern, if you start hearing any of the following
sounds emanating from your HVAC, it's time to call a professional. Don't ignore
the warning signs of a serious problem; this can just cause a total breakdown
of the unit, which may need to be replaced-expensive and unnecessary if the
problem can be repaired early on.
Here are four unexpected sounds from your home appliances that warrant a closer look from an HVAC professional:
High-Pitched Squealing Noise
While it might sound like you've become the neighborhood haunted house, that high-pitched squealing noise coming from your HVAC is a symptom of a bigger issue. A high-pitched squealing sound could mean an issue with the system's compressor and fan motors. Often, this indicates too much air pressure has built up in the system, or there's a lack of proper airflow.
Sometimes, this high-pitched sound will only last 10-15 seconds before automatically switching off; however, this doesn't mean the system works properly. Regardless of how long the noise continues, a professional should thoroughly check the system.
Unfortunately, these noises could result from
unlubricated bearings or slipped and damaged blower belts. In these instances,
a certified professional will need to check the system, and replacement parts
may need to be ordered.
Buzzing Noise from Furnace
A furnace making buzzing noise isn't a sign that a bee colony has occupied the vents; instead, it's a sure sign of an electrical problem. Additionally, if you hear a humming noise, this could indicate a similar situation.
Most electrical issues with a furnace happen around the blowing motor and, sadly, might mean a replacement is needed. Generally, a humming or buzzing noise means that your furnace has a failing blower motor capacitor or an aging blower motor.
In a few lucky instances, an unlubricated blower motor
could be the problem, which usually requires repairs rather than a full
replacement. Either way, call in a professional to have them test the system
before further electrical damage can be done.
Clicking Sound from HVAC
If you hear a repetitive clicking noise while running your air conditioning, that could mean it's a three-B problem: a fan blade is bent, broken, or blocked. While this is still a task for a capable professional, this issue doesn't require you to replace the entire system; a small repair or blade replacement should do the trick.
However, if this issue has gone unchecked for too long, this could mean additional damage throughout the system. When the air conditioning unit has to work harder to compensate for poor airflow, auxiliary systems and hardware might need to be replaced. Scheduling a repair before the problem gets worse is the best course of action.
You
may also need to call a professional and ensure the system runs efficiently, even if the clicking noise is infrequent.
Hissing Noise from Water Heater
Is your water heater making hissing noise? A hissing noise from the water heater is indicative of three potential problems. Because a diagnostic is needed, trying to fix it on your own can be incredibly difficult. And if it sounds like an angry snake crawled into your garage (or water heater space), it's time to call the professionals.
A sediment buildup could be the culprit here since minerals from the water source can accumulate in the water heater, creating thick layers that can trap water bubbles. The trapped water will overheat and steam, causing a hissing noise. Eventually, the high pressure and increased sediment layers can cause an internal tank leak. Most likely, a hissing water heater means an internal leak.
Unfortunately,
the solution depends on how serious the issue is. Solving the problem might be
as simple as flushing the sediment from the water or replacing the unit if the
leak is big enough.
If your home appliances are making any of the noises above (or even a few we haven't covered), schedule an appointment with an HVAC service center today. Contact Stahl Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning to discuss a service or maintenance session, and let us help you get your house quiet and comfortable again.